Understanding Canada

Canada is a diverse nation with people of many different backgrounds. The suggestions below are general guidelines to help you navigate your way through the Canadian culture.

Individuality and Privacy

March 6, 2014 – New Westminster- Photos for the Justice Institute of BC. Photo by Jimmy Jeong

Canadian society encourages individualism. As a result, Canadians are likely to look out for themselves and their immediate family members. They may not feel a strong sense of obligation towards public institutions and hold loose bonds with their community. Canadians value privacy and would generally prefer that you contact them to arrange a visit rather than dropping by unannounced.

Directness

While Canadians are generally considered polite, they can be direct with their opinions and preferences. They may feel free to contradict others or to say “no” when they disagree or do not like what is proposed. Canadians, both male and female, believe that steady eye contact is a sign of self-confidence and trustworthiness.

Punctuality

At school and work, Canadians expect you to be on time. If you show up more than five minutes late for a meeting, it is considered polite to provide an apology and a reason for your lateness. If you have to miss an appointment, let the person know ahead of time.

Physical Space

Most Canadians do not often kiss or hug when greeting friends. However, it is customary to shake hands when being introduced. Generally, adults only hold hands in public when they are in an intimate relationship.

Informality

Canadian culture emphasizes equality and cooperation and does not encourage class, gender, or age distinctions. As a result, relationships are informal and relaxed: it is common to address instructors or supervisors by their first name. However, informality does not mean that marks of respect are not valued.